The Jackdaw and the Doves

04. THE JACKDAW AND THE DOVES. A JACKDAW, observing how well cared for were the Doves in a certain dovecote, whitewashed himself and went to take a part in the same way of living. The Doves were friendly enough so long as he kept silence, taking him for one of themselves, but when he once forgot himself and gave a croak, they immediately perceived his character and cuffed him out. So the Jackdaw, having failed in getting a share of good things there, returned to his brother Jackdaws. But these latter, not recognising him because of his colour, kept him out of their mess also, so that in his desire for two things he got neither. [more info]